Mill Street Connection

High Falls
District

the Project
The existing connection strategically linking High
Falls and Downtown Rochester consists of a 7’ wide
tunnel under the Inner Loop mainline. Traffic on the
associated ramps, narrow approaches and the low
Downtown and narrow construction of the tunnel make it dark and
In
ne
unwelcoming. An expanded, 20’ wide tunnel would
rL
oo address current perceptions associated with this
p critical pedestrian connection. Enhanced lighting,
aesthetic treatments, such as public art and murals,
And
rew would improve the character, appeal and safety of this
crossing, providing the pedestrian continuity desired
s Str

for downtown.
eet

t
rS tree
Wate
Enhance linkage between
Ma
in S

downtown core and historic

tree

High Falls
t

ul Street Complement Riverfront Reborn

Saint Pa
development opportunity

$3 MILLION
Create cohesive and complete
Public pedestrian experience
Investment
26|Downtown
bridge the loop the Project
At the heart of ROC the Riverway is the
need to create safer, convenient and
clear access routes for pedestrians and
bicyclists. The Bridge the Loop project
emphasizes streetscape enhancements
that are critical to linking downtown
Rochester to the Genesee River north of
High Falls, including the Genesee Brewing
Company. Streetscape enhancements
include landscaping, pedestrian amenities,
intersection improvements, and on-street
bike lanes. The daunting walk over the

t
ee
Inner Loop is replaced by an expanded

Str
bridge structure that expands pedestrian

ul
sidewalks and encourages the greening of

Pa
int
the structure.
Sa
Strong, attractive link
between downtown core
and amenities to the north

Opportunities for green

infrastructure and
stormwater improvements

$16 MILLION
Welcoming and attractive
Public gateway from the north
Investment
Downtown|27
welcome connection the Project
The High Falls District and surrounding lands are
one of the best kept secrets in Rochester. Recent
publicity has focused around expansion projects
at the Genesee Brewery, including planned public
space investments. Many pedestrians and vehicles
entering downtown face an uninviting gateway
under the railroad bridge. Strengthening this
major gateway, and enhancing it for all users, will
facilitate the seamless transition across the City’s
vast infrastructure network, which today separates
waterfront spaces. The expansion of the rail bridge
will require approval from CSX Railroad but will
have significant, visible implications on improving
the connection for trucks, cars and non-motorized
users.
reet
u l St
Pa Ensure tunnel can effectively
Saint
accommodate truck traffic
Increase safety and comfort
level for pedestrians

Improve visual and physical

connectivity between downtown

$ 40 MILLION
and High Falls
Public
Investment
28|Downtown
 South river Segment table of contents
• Restore the Shore, p.30
So
ut • Recharging the Trail, p.32
h Recent/
Erie Lackawanna Ply • Water Landings, p.33
Pedestrian Bridge m
ou Ongoing
th • Link to the River, p.34
Av River Corridor
en • Bridge the Genesee, p.36
Vacuum Oil BOA ue Investments
• Genesee Gateway, p.38

Water
Landings
Restore
the Shore

Recharging
the Trail

t
ee
Str
rd
Fo
West River Wall
Mou
nt H Exc
ope han
Ave ge
nue Stre
et

0
I-49
Bridge the
Genesee Genesee
Gateway
Genesee
Gateway
Park

South River
Link to
the River

South River|29
 restore the shore

$15 MILLION
30|South River
Public
Investment
 the Project
Adjacent to the PLEX neighborhood, the Genesee Riverway Trail is
narrow, flanked by overgrown vegetation blocking the views to the
adjacent river only a few feet away. The Restore the Shore project
will open the western shoreline, while simultaneously addressing
structural issues with the existing flood wall. Creating a naturalized
shoreline in the southern portion of the neighborhood, reconstructing
the floodwall, and improving the trail to the north will ensure its
use for many years to come. Enhancing public open spaces and
providing for direct water access for kayaks, canoes and a water taxi
will make this a riverfront destination for residents and visitors, near
and far.

Improved flood control structures

Improved views to the Genesee River

Enhanced safety and visibility for trail

users

Direct non-motorized connection to

University of Rochester

Physical access to water-based

transportation and recreation

Potential Private
Investment $200 MILLION
South River|31
Recharging the trail the project
Creating a non-motorized connection
between the University of Rochester and
downtown is the perfect opportunity
to engage students and families. The
Genesee Riverway Trail, running along
the east and west banks of the Genesee
River, is the best avenue to provide
this access. Today, trail users are
restricted by the existing width of the
trail, which measures only 8’ across.
The envisioned trail includes separate
pedestrian and bicycle facilities with a
12’ wide pedestrian path and 12’ wide
two-way cycle-track, divided by a 6’
landscaped median. Regularly placed
pedestrian amenities and crossings
will ensure continual access across
the entire 2-mile length. This will
generate a beautiful, welcoming and
active waterfront that all age groups
can enjoy.

Continuous ADA access

for 2-miles of waterfront
Opportunities for green

$5 MILLION
32|South River
Public
Investment
infrastructure
Emphasis on a multi-
modal environment
water landings the Project
Ensuring a full range of public transportation options are
available across the Riverway is vital to the City’s success.
We envision a thriving series of water landings to transport
individuals between destinations, from Genesee Valley
Park north to Corn Hill Landing. Strategically located stops
along both sides of the River will enable movement between
riverfront destinations, while offering picturesque views and
ability to experience the Genesee River up close. Water
landings will be able to accommodate water taxis, water
bikes, kayaks, canoes and pedal / paddle excursions.

Capitalizing on the beauty of the

Genesee River

Enhanced access to riverfront

destinations
To University of Rochester, Brooks
Landing, Genesee Waterways center &
Genesee Valley Park
access & connect Unique visitor experience

Water based transportation loop

Transportation and recreation

function

$3 MILLION Public
Investment landings
South River|33
Link to the River

$8 MILLION Public
Investment
34|South River
 the Project
Situated between Genesee Gateway Park and the downtown core,
underutilized waterfront lands sit awaiting the right development
opportunity. A strong vision for these lands, combined with public
investments along the rivers edge, will help position these sites for
private investment. Activating vacant parcels and emphasizing a
strong river’s edge adjacent to the existing Spectrum headquarters
will open new opportunities for residents, employees and visitors.
This project imagines a strong riverfront public realm and green
spaces integrated within a distinctive development that recognizes
the concepts of sustainability and reuse – breathing new life into
used shipping containers.

Unique and identifiable riverfront

destination

Range of passive and active

recreation and service amenities

Sustainability principles incorporated

into design

Small business attraction

Potential Private
Investment $70 MILLION
South River|35
Bridge the Genesee

$16 MILLION
36|South River
Public
Investment
 the Project
The Islands in the Water pedestrian bridge is a
needed east-west connection for walkers and
cyclists that achieves far greater results in its
design. Part connectivity, part river access and
part art, the bridge will become an iconic element
in the story of experiencing the Genesee River. A
pivot structure allows for boat access while below
surface infrastructure assists with debris removal.

Pedestrian infrastructure in the form

of public art

Ensures continuous east-west

connectivity

Iconic Riverway design feature

South River|37
genesee gateway the Project
It’s estimated that 25% of Rochester
residents are under 18 years of age.
Creating a family friendly environment
that offers direct access to the Genesee
River will ensure all generations
can enjoy the magnificence of our
riverfront. Currently, the Genesee
Gateway Park is underutilized and
underdeveloped, providing the perfect
opportunity to create a vibrant,
playful, urban waterfront experience.
The re-imagined park will create a
space which visually and physically
connects the river to the surrounding
neighborhoods. Areas for respite and
areas for play will ensure this is a
riverfront park that offers something
for all age ranges.
Direct and formalized
links to adjacent
neighborhoods
Integration of public art

Flexible space for a

$3 MILLION
38|South River
Public
Investment
range of community
events
 Connect the Gorge

ue
en
Av
ke
MCC Downtown La

Bee Bee Flats Running Track

Bridge

Sm
ith
Str
High Falls

ee
Adventure

t
et
re
l St
u
Pa
int
Sa
Tree Top Trail High Falls Segment table of contents
• 20. Over the Falls Bridge, p.40
Genesee Brewery • 21. Preserving Pont de Rennes, p.41
• 22. Tree Top Trail, p.42
Preserving Pont de • 23. Bee Bee Flats, p.44 Recent/
Rennes • 24. Connect the Gorge, p.46 Ongoing
• 25. High Falls Adventure, p.47 River Corridor
• 26. Running Track Bridge, p.48 Investments

High Falls
In
ne
rL
Over the Falls
oo Bridge
p

High Falls|39
Over the FAlls bridge the Project
The Over the Falls Bridge is one
element of a larger strategy to transform
the High Falls area into a world-
class tourism destination and local
attraction. The bridge will provide a
missing pedestrian link over the rim
of the Gorge, allowing people to relish
in the breathtaking natural beauty and
splendor of the High Falls.

21st century
infrastructure
Overhead views of High
Falls

Continuous pedestrian
ring over the Genesee
River gorge

$28 MILLION Public

Investment
40|High Falls
preserving pont de rennes
the project
Pont De Rennes is an 1898-vintage
wrought iron bridge spanning the
Genesee River Gorge. Recognized as
one of the best places in the City to
view the Falls and riverfront, the bridge
hovers 100 feet over the Genesee
River. Converted to a pedestrian bridge
in 1982, it is one of the most visited
destinations in downtown, connecting
the historic High Falls district to the
Genesee Brewing Company. In order
to protect this asset for generations
to come, significant structural repairs
are needed to ensure the safety and
viability of this historic infrastructure.

Breathtaking views of
High Falls
Major pedestrian
connection between
High Falls and eastern
banks of the river
Adaptive reuse of

$9 MILLION
historic infrastructure
Public
Investment
High Falls|41
TREE TOP TRAIL

$8 MILLION
42|High Falls
Public
Investment
 the Project
Imagine taking in the breathtaking views of the Genesee River
Gorge while walking along the tree tops. Having the opportunity to
enjoy the City from a truly unique perspective will beckon tourists
and residents alike. Presently, access to the riverfront north of
High Falls is challenging, due to topography and vegetation. The
envisioned tree top trail overcomes the physical obstacles created
by the gorge, to create a unique trail experience. Completed in
two parts, the public tree trop trail will extend from the Genesee
Brewery to Smith Street. The City will then solicit private investors
to extend the tree top trail system on the west and east sides of
the river, north of Smith Street. The private investment is intended
to create an adventure recreation destination, including hanging
trails, rock climbing walls, and obstacle rope courses, accessible

A one of a kind adventure destination

Unique trail experience

Accessible to all ages and user levels

Potential Private
$20 MILLION Investment in
expanded trail
experience
High Falls|43
bee bee flats
enue
Lake Av

Parking Lot Restored

Buildings

Trail System

Open Space
Environmental
and Clean Energy
Demonstration
Project

Smith Street
Inner
Loop

Boardwalk

$17 MILLION
et
Public Saint Paul Stre
Investment
44|High Falls
 the Project
The Genesee River gorge is one of the most impressive and
unrealized spaces in Rochester. Once the location of our largest
industries, today the site along the river beckons a new vision that
celebrates the history and natural resources that define our City.
Sustainable, public oriented development of the former BeeBee
station lands will create new opportunities for people to access and
enjoy the rivers edge. Informal green spaces interwoven with over-
water promenades and walkways will offer a unique perspective for
education, interpretation and appreciation.

Public investment incentivizing

private investment

Sustainably designed, flexible open

spaces
City’s newest outdoor entertainment
destination
Potential for clean energy
development (hydro and solar) and
partnerships with RGE

$17 MILLION Potential Private

Investment
High Falls|45
connect the gorge
the Project
Existing pedestrian access across the River north of High Falls is limited
to elevated access at Pont de Rennes and Smith Street bridge. A new
pedestrian connection, that utilizes existing concrete piers in the riverbed,
will establish an important ground level connection between BeeBee
Flats and High Falls Adventure. Utilizing existing infrastructure reduces
overall project costs while achieving the City’s vision for comprehensive
connectivity.
Seamless ADA compliant connectivity

Utilization of existing, in-place infrastructure

Scenic viewsheds

46|High Falls
$7 MILLION Public
Investment
high falls adventure Kayak Launch
the Project
North of Smith Street, a vacant
brownfield sits at river level,
Trail System
unremediated and in need of
Promenade investment; but full of potential.
Imagine an outdoor destination
that on one hand challenges your
physical skills, but also offers a
Skate waterfront respite just minutes from
Festival Park downtown. Accessible by trail or
Space
street, the High Falls Adventure site
offers a unique regional destination
for extreme sports activities
connecting directly to the Tree Top
Trail. Interwoven into the design
Parking Lot are flexible green space areas that
Multi-Purpose Field can be programmed for major
events, concerts and community
Sm

gatherings.
ith

et
Str

Stre
ee

au
l Resilient design to
t

tP address flooding
in
Sa

Brownfield
remediation and reuse

Regional destination

$30 MILLION Public

Investment
for outdoor recreation

High Falls|47
Running Track Bridge
the Project
The Running Track Bridge is a former rail bridge
that once exemplified the City’s industrial
prowess. Today, the bridge sits abandoned
but continues to highlight the importance
of connections across the Genesee River,
linking neighbors and destinations on either
side. Rehabilitating the bridge as a pedestrian
amenity will highlight the historic value of the
structure. Reuse of this existing resource will
allow the city to meet today’s needs and ensure
complementary and cohesive connections to
ROC the Riverway sites.

Adaptive reuse of existing

infrastructure
Continuous, ADA compliant
pedestrian access
Direct pedestrian connection
to El Camino Trail

48|High Falls
$5 MILLION Public
Investment
Downtown / riverfront Management Entity
the project
With the ambition to create a vibrant and dynamic user
experience, ROC the Riverway includes significant investments
in the downtown Rochester riverfront. In order to achieve
these goals, the city will establish a Downtown / Riverfront
Management Entity to partner with state and local organizations,
to ensure the vision of ROC the Riverway becomes a reality.
This management entity has the potential to become a
powerful partnership, with highly successful models observed
in cities across the country, including Baltimore, Chattanooga
and Grand Rapids. Several organizational structures will be
considered before finalizing to determine the ideal solution
for the City of Rochester and stakeholders. Ultimately, this
entity will be responsible for ensuring the wide-ranging
transformation of downtown Rochester.

The Downtown / Riverfront Management Entity will ensure

the ROC the Riverway strategy is executed systematically.
Responsibilities we envision include:

• Community visioning and engagement;

• Coordinating private development activities;
• Overseeing public infrastructure investments;
• Receiving state and philanthropic funding;

$10 MILLION Public

Investment
•
•
•
Developing and implementing programs and events;
Engaging in marketing and branding efforts; and
Recruiting businesses.
|49
Prioritization &
Cost Estimate
Project Name Map #
(in millions)*

Highest priority projects, by Phase, listed in italics

PHASE I (0-3 years)**

phasing
Downtown/Riverfront Mang. Entity $10 28
27
Charles Carroll Plaza $25 15
16 Prio
Aqueduct Re-imagined $35 9
Riverway Broad to Main $10 12
13
Library North Terrace $8 10
12
Main Street Resurgence $9 13
14
Preserving Pont de Rennes $9 21
22
Riverfront Reborn $10 16
17
Genesee Gateway $3 4
Mill Street Connection $3 17
the Project Subtotal $122
18

ROC the Riverway is a collection of 27 transformative projects representing PHASE II (3-5 years)
ROC Convention Expansion $125 11
12
a once-in-a-century opportunity to reshape Rochester’s identity and Recharging the Trail $5 1
landscape. In order for this myriad of projects to maximize their impact, Bridge the Genesee $16 6
Bridge the Loop $16 18
19
careful consideration must be given to how they are implemented. Assuming Running Track Bridge $5 26
27

sufficient funding is available, the table below shows how the projects can Water Landings $3 3
Link to the River $8 5
be phased in over the next 10 years, as well as identifying their priority Subtotal $178
level. Consideration was given to a project’s complexity, potential for PHASE III (5-10 years)
leveraging private investment, and impact on other projects. Arena on the River $37 8
Riverway Main to Andrews $5 14
15

Restore the Shore $15 2

Childs Basin $5 10
11
Riverside Development $8 7
Subtotal $70

PHASE IV (10+ years)

Connect the Gorge $7 24
25
Bee Bee Flats $17 23
24

Welcome Connection $40 19

20
Over the Falls Bridge $28 20
21
Tree Top Trail $8 22
23
High Falls Adventure $30 26
25
Subtotal $130

TOTAL FOR ALL PROJECTS $500

* All costs include soft costs and development costs
** With the completion of Phase I, the Genesee Riverway Trail
will run continously through Downtown Rochester on the west
side of the river.

50|
Rochester, new York